NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: May 19, 2026, 5:46 PM ET

Eastern Conference Playoff Drama

The Cleveland Cavaliers advanced to the Eastern Conference finals after defeating the Detroit Pistons 125-94 in Game 7 on Sunday night, though the Pistons forced a decisive seventh game by winning their fourth elimination game in the 2026 NBA playoffs with a dominant second-half performance. Despite the lopsided loss, Detroit coach J.B. Bickerstaff maintained the season was "not a disappointment" following his team's elimination. The Cavaliers' victory came with James Hardenpassing Stephen Curry for 10th place on the NBA's all-time postseason scoring list with a step-back 3-pointer in the first quarter of Game, showcasing his continued impact in the playoffs. Meanwhile, Cleveland's path forward includes potential scrutiny after their third straight second-round appearance, with rival teams monitoring the situation as the Pistons remain a developing team with promising young talent.

Western Conference Finals Preview

The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs are set to begin the Western Conference finals with Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexanderreceiving his second straight MVP trophy in a pregame ceremony Monday, though he admitted he "has to be better" in his performance following the honor. The Thunder will be without guard De'Aaron Fox for Game 1 due to a right ankle sprain, creating an adjustment challenge for head coach Mark Daigneault. Thunder wing Jalen Williamsdeclared himself healthy after missing the past six games with a Grade 1 strain in his left hamstring, providing a significant boost to the team's depth. In a show of team generosity, SGAgifted his teammates new Audemars Piguet watches, Burberry trench coats and golf clubs, demonstrating his commitment to the team's chemistry as they pursue a championship against the Spurs.

Knicks Offensive Transformation

The New York Knicks have found unexpected offensive success with Karl-Anthony Townsmorphing into a point-center, a role that has transformed their offense and made it appear nearly unstoppable ahead of the Eastern Conference finals. Towns's ability to facilitate from the center position has unlocked new possibilities for the Knicks' offensive schemes, creating matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. Meanwhile, Knicks forward OG Anunobypracticed again Saturday and reported that his right hamstring injury is not as severe as the one he suffered during the 2024 playoffs, raising hopes he'll be fully healthy for the conference finals. The Knicks' evolution comes as NBA insidersanalyze the keys to both conference finals, with New York's newfound offensive versatility emerging as a potential series-changing factor against the Boston Celtics.

Coaching Changes Around the League

The New Orleans Pelicans have hired Jamahl Mosley as their new head coach, bringing in a coach who spent the past five seasons with the Orlando Magic, compiling a 189-221 record while earning three playoff berths during that span. The hiring is part of the ongoing coaching carousel around the league, with Orlando and Chicago still searching for long-term fits after Milwaukee also found their next coach. In a surprising career pivot, retired three-time NBA champion Rick Foxwas appointed Monday as a senator for the main opposition party in the Bahamas after his general election loss, demonstrating his continued influence beyond basketball. The Pelicans' move to hire Mosley comes as teamsprepare for the offseason, with coaching vacancies and potential roster changes dominating the conversation as the playoffs progress.

Draft Preparation & Offseason Outlook

As the NBA draft approaches, Jeremy Woo has released an updated mock draft projecting all 60 picks after an exciting